Moran Sponsors Federal Highway Bill

Washington, D.C.  Congressman Jerry Moran today sponsored a comprehensive transportation bill, which authorizes funding for federal highways, public transportation programs and safety initiatives for the next six years. In Kansas, this bill would invest more than $2 billion in transportation programs and is estimated to create thousands of new jobs.

"The transportation system in Kansas is vital to the success of our state," Moran said. "Our roads do more than just allow us to transport goods to market; they connect communities in a patchwork that comprises the very fabric of our state. Therefore, it is important that our infrastructure needs are met, and this bill will help make this goal a reality."

Kansas has the fourth largest number of public roads in the nation, totaling more than 134,500 miles, and ranks third among all states in the number of bridges. The First Congressional District alone has more road miles than 29 states in the United States.

Included in the reauthorization bill are funding initiatives to improve the overall safety of the nation's roads and Interstate System, in addition to upgrading bridges and roads across the nation. It is estimated that the bill would also create millions of jobs in the transportation sector, nationwide.

Moran is a member of the House Transportation Committee and was actively involved in Congress' last comprehensive transportation bill that became law in 1998.

"Transportation is vital for the economic welfare of Kansas," Moran said. "I will continue to be a strong advocate for our transportation needs as Congress debate on this bill. I have urged my colleagues to take quick action on this to get these resources out of Washington, D.C. and into our communities where it is needed most."